How to Prep Your Quilt Top for a Longarm Quilter (Without Stress!)

Melissa Martin
Oct 8
3 min read

Hey quilty friends,

I’m kicking off a little blog series here at Six Kids Quilts, and I’m so excited to share it with you! For the next four weeks, I’ll be breaking down everything you need to know about sending your quilt to a longarm quilter. Think of it as your friendly, no-stress guide to getting the most out of your quilting journey.

Each week, I’ll tackle a new topic: how to prep your quilt top (no perfection required!), why working with a professional longarmer can make a world of difference, and the ins and outs of edge-to-edge versus custom quilting. My hope is that you’ll feel more confident, less overwhelmed, and maybe even pick up a few new tips along the way.

So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and follow along—whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned quilter, you’re welcome here. If you have questions or want to share your own quilting stories, please leave a comment below or email me directly. I’d love to connect!

Let’s make this quilting adventure as fun and stress-free as possible, together—join the conversation and be part of our community!

How to Prep Your Quilt Top for a Longarm Quilter (Without Stress!)

You’ve poured your creativity, time, and heart into your quilt top; now it’s almost ready for its grand finale! Sending your quilt to a longarmer should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Whether you’re prepping your very first quilt or you’ve done this a dozen times, here’s a step-by-step, judgment-free guide to help you (and your quilt!) get the best possible results.

Why Prepping Your Quilt Matters

Think of prepping your quilt top like prepping ingredients for a favorite recipe: a little extra care up front means everything comes together beautifully at the end. And don’t worry—nobody’s quilt is ever “perfect.” I’ve seen it all (even my own quilt tops), and I promise that my job is to make your work shine, not to judge.

Step-by-Step Quilt Top Prep

1. Square Up Your Quilt Top

Lay your quilt top flat on a surface and check that all sides are straight and all corners are square.
Trim any uneven edges—this helps keep your borders straight and prevents puckers during quilting.
Real talk: Borders sometimes get a little “wavy.” If yours do, don’t panic! Just let me know; I’ll do my best to ease them in and keep things looking crisp.

2. Press Like a Pro

Press your quilt top and backing thoroughly. Flat seams and wrinkle-free fabric help the quilting stitches glide smoothly, preventing folds from getting caught in the stitching.
Pro tip: Press seams open where possible, especially on the backing. It reduces bulk and helps your quilt lie flatter.

3. Trim All Loose Threads

Snip away any long or dark threads, front and back. These can sneak up and show through lighter fabrics after quilting.
Story time: I once found a neon thread hiding inside a white quilt—thankfully, I caught it before quilting! A quick check makes all the difference.

4. Prepare Your Backing

Your backing should be at least 4–6 inches larger than your quilt top on all sides.
If piecing your backing, use a ½” seam and press it open for a smooth, flat finish.
Stick with high-quality, 100% cotton wide-backs.

5. Choose and Prep Your Batting

If you’re sending your own batting, it should also be 4–6 inches bigger on all sides than your quilt top.
I recommend and stock Quilters Dream batting (wool, 80/20, poly deluxe)—just let me know your favorite or ask for a recommendation!

6. Don’t Layer or Baste

Please send your quilt top, backing, and batting as separate pieces—there is no need to layer or pin them together.
This makes it much easier to load your quilt onto the longarm frame and ensures the smoothest finish.

7. Label and Communicate

Include a note with your name, contact information, and any special instructions, such as design ideas, thread color preferences, or deadlines.
If your quilt has a story or special meaning, I’d love to hear it! It helps me quilt with even more heart.

What to Include When Shipping

Quilt top (pressed and trimmed)
Backing fabric (pressed, sized up)
Batting (if sending your own)
Intake form or a note with your details and instructions
Return shipping label (if possible)
Optional: A note about your quilt’s story—these always brighten my day!

We’re In This Together

If you’re unsure about any step, please reach out! I’m always happy to answer questions, help with squaring or pressing, or even walk you through the prep in person or by video chat. Remember: every quilt is welcome here, and every story matters.